Mixing Business with Leisure in London: How to Enjoy the Bank Holiday

Whether you're in London for a work trip that overlaps with the long weekend or simply making the most of the bank holiday, there's no reason not to blend productivity with a bit of seasonal fun. With Spring in full swing and the weather finally playing nice, we've rounded up the best ways to add a little leisure to your schedule, no matter how packed your itinerary might be. We could all do with some relaxation once in a while!

Best Outdoor Activities in London

Regents Park:

After a morning of meetings or a few hours of remote work, Regent’s Park offers the perfect escape. Just a short walk or tube ride from Central London’s business hubs, the park is ideal for a midday breather or an afternoon reset. Grab a coffee and stroll through Queen Mary’s Rose Garden, rent a deck chair for some sun-soaked reading, or even hop on a pedalo at the Boating Lake. If you’re looking to impress a client or colleague, a walking meeting here beats any boardroom.

Thames River Cruise:

Here at Viridian we are all about soaking up the rays the second the sun comes out. What better way to experience some of London by taking a river cruise down the Thames. You can start this adventure from Richmond Park into central London or you can start straight from Central London. Depending on the style of river cruise you’d like to do you can also book a dinner cruise. You can tick off some of those striking London landmarks whilst also getting a delicious meal. Now the weather's warming up you are best to aim for a top deck seat and enjoy the views from there.

Indoor Attractions in London

West End:

Unrelated to the beautiful season upon us, when in London you should definitely take some time to visit the theatre district in London. A West End show is one of the most iconic things to do here in London. Home to world-class theatre, elegant bars, and buzzing late-night spots, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or meetings. Whether you’re booking premium seats at a long-running musical or catching a new play at a boutique theatre, the West End offers a touch of culture, charm, and glamour in equal measure.

Tate Modern:

Set in a converted power station on the Thames, Tate Modern is London’s go to for contemporary cool art. Inside, it’s all about big ideas and boundary-pushing art, think Warhol, Hockney, Yayoi Kusama, and the kind of immersive installations you’ll be posting about for days. The Turbine Hall alone is a massive, ever-changing space that turns art into an experience. It's free to enter and full of surprises.

Where to Eat in London: Top Restaurants and Food Spots

Crunch:

Crunch is not like your traditional chain that’s going viral. It started off as a pop up in Hackney and as a stall in the old Spitalfields market, recently opening up a shop on Dean Street, Soho. Whilst they do have a few locations, they are not franchised and all operated by the same teams. Crunch is renowned for its inventive sandwiches served on house-made brioche-inspired bread.

De Nadas – East (Stoke Newington) and West (Notting Hill) London

Relatively new to the food industry, kicking off in 2022 and launched by Ñako Martinez and Nico Buyo is De Nadas a lively Argentinian empanadería that has swiftly earned a loyal following in London, known for its hand-crafted, oven-baked empanadas filled with bold, authentic flavours. This hub brings a true taste of Argentina to the city, with the ambition of elevating the empanada to iconic street food status in the UK - just as it is back home.

Eclectic Collection

An ‘eclectic’ food joint where fusion isn’t a trend, it’s the rule. When you combine the thought of healthy fruits and a delicious sweet treat you get ultra realistic fruity desserts at Eclectic Collection. Whilst having a main restaurant area and menu for all your dinner plan desires, what they’re known for is their patisserie. You’ll come away having satisfied your sweet tooth and with a totally unique experience to show your friends, family and TikTok if that’s your thing!